C2 - bolt on wheel lug nuts

[Guest]

Can anyone tell me how to identify an original set of 1967 lug nuts for bolt on wheels?

Also, where can I find a replacement or repro screwdriver that should be with the N89 opption car?

Thanks,
Steve

[John H.]

Re: C2 - bolt on wheel lug nuts

Steve -

The original bolt-on lug nuts were 3/4" hex - the repros are 7/8" hex. The N89 screwdrivers are very hard to find - a REPRO made about ten years ago sold on eBay about two months ago for $300 (if you find a case of them, let me know - I need one too)

[Guest]

Re: C2 - bolt on wheel lug nuts

John,
Thanks. I have a set with a "K" on the side of each lug nut. Could this be for Kelsey?

Steve

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 - bolt on wheel lug nuts

Steve----

The original lug nuts used for 1967 Corvettes were the same whether the standard rally wheels or the optional bolt-on aluminum wheels were installed on the car. These lug nuts were of GM #358501. They were, of course, designed for use with 7/16-20 thread and were 3/4" across-the-flats (socket size).

GM used a LOT of these lug nuts. This same part number was used from, at least, 1965 through the time that metric fastners were phased in during the 80s. Most Chevrolet cars and light trucks used this size and these nuts. Undoubtedly, MANY, MANY manufacturers supplied these nuts to GM. However, ONE of the suppliers to the Corvette plant used in the 65-70 time period was Russell, Birdsall, and Ward. Their nuts, embossed on the outer face of the nut with their "RBW" trademark will often be seen on original Corvette lug nuts of the period. Also, on the face of the nuts will be embossed an "R" (for right hand thread; not all lug nuts are right hand thread, so the need for ID) and this will be seen 180 degrees from the "RBW" embossment.

As a matter of fact, the GM #358501 lug nuts are still available to this very day from GM. Will they be identical to the 358501's of the 60's? I seriously doubt it. For one thing, I think that Russell, Birdsall, and Ward is out of business. So, I doubt that thier headmark will be found on any currently available. (keep in mind, they may not have been the only original supplier to the Corvette plant, anyway). But, spec-wise, I expect that the current 358501 will be just like the originals.